John Miller
Mushrooms are the fruit bodies of fungi, and there are many different species. While some mushrooms are safe for cats in moderation, such as white button or cremini mushrooms, wild mushrooms are a major risk and should always be avoided due to their potential toxicity. Puffball mushrooms are one of the most widespread edible mushrooms in the world, but there are a few look-alikes that are poisonous. For example, the Earthball mushroom (Scleroderma citrinum) is a puffball look-alike that is poisonous. If you suspect your cat has ingested a toxic mushroom, contact your vet immediately.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Are puffball mushrooms toxic to cats? | No, puffball mushrooms are not poisonous. However, there are a few puffball look-alikes which can be toxic. |
| How to identify puffball mushrooms | Puffballs are typically spherical or upside-down pear-shaped. The flesh is white, firm, and spongy when young, but becomes yellowish or brown and softer as it matures. Puffballs do not have gills. |
| Examples of non-poisonous puffball mushrooms | Common puffballs (Lycoperdon perlatum), Giant puffballs (Calvatia gigantea), Purple-spored puffball (Calvatia cyathiformis), Grey puffball (Bovista plumbea) |
| Examples of poisonous puffball look-alikes | Earthball mushroom (Scleroderma citrinum), Destroying Angel (Amanita bisporigera), Earthstar (Geastrum spp.), Cortinarius (Webcaps) |
| Symptoms of mushroom poisoning in cats | Vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, dehydration, slow heart rate, respiratory problems, liver failure, nausea, inappetence, increased drinking and urination, lack of coordination, tremors, hallucinations, vocalizations, disorientation, agitation, altered mentation, drooling, seizures |
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What You'll Learn
Puffball mushrooms are not toxic to cats
While many wild mushrooms are toxic to cats, puffball mushrooms are not among them. Puffball mushrooms are one of the most widespread edible mushrooms in the world. They are distinguished by their spherical or upside-down pear shape and their white, firm, and spongy flesh when young. As they mature, their flesh turns yellowish or brown and becomes softer, at which point they are no longer recommended for consumption.
Puffball mushrooms lack an open cap with spore-bearing gills, which is one of their most distinguishing features. While there are a few poisonous mushrooms that resemble puffballs, such as the Earthball mushroom (Scleroderma citrinum) and the Destroying Angel (Amanita bisporigera), these imposters can be identified by their brown or reddish-brown colour and the presence of small scales on their surface. Therefore, the universal rule for identifying safe puffball mushrooms is: if it has gills, don't eat it; if the inside is not white and spongy, don't eat it.
It is important to exercise caution when allowing your cat to consume mushrooms, as many wild varieties are toxic and can lead to serious health issues or even death. Common toxic mushrooms include Amanita and Galerina, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, liver failure, and other severe symptoms. Even store-bought mushrooms should be prepared properly, and cooking is recommended to eliminate potential bacteria or harmful compounds. Always consult your veterinarian if you are unsure about a mushroom's safety or if your cat exhibits any signs of illness after consumption.
In summary, puffball mushrooms are not toxic to cats, but it is essential to correctly identify them to avoid poisonous look-alikes. When in doubt, consult a veterinarian or a local mycologist to ensure the safety of your feline friend.
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Wild mushrooms are toxic to cats
Many wild mushrooms contain potent toxins that can cause gastrointestinal issues, neurological problems, renal failure, and hepatic damage in cats. Symptoms of mushroom poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, dehydration, liver failure, and in severe cases, death. It is important to note that symptoms may not appear immediately, so close monitoring of your cat is crucial if you suspect they have ingested wild mushrooms.
Some of the most toxic wild mushrooms to cats include Amanita, Galerina, and Scleroderma citrinum (Earthball) species. These mushrooms can cause severe liver damage, vomiting, and even death in small amounts. Other poisonous mushrooms to look out for include the Destroying Angel (Amanita bisporigera), which is a puffball look-alike with a white spherical body and gills on the inside, and Cortinarius (Webcaps) species, which can be quite toxic.
To protect your cat from wild mushroom toxicity, it is crucial to prevent them from consuming any wild mushrooms. Keep your cat away from areas where wild mushrooms grow, such as wooded areas, rocky terrains, grassy parks, and even your backyard. If you suspect your cat has ingested a wild mushroom, contact your veterinarian immediately and provide as much information as possible about the mushroom and the symptoms your cat is experiencing.
While some store-bought mushroom varieties, such as white button or cremini mushrooms, are considered safe for cats in moderation, it is always best to consult your veterinarian before offering any mushrooms to your cat. Cooking mushrooms is generally safer than serving them raw, but even cooked mushrooms should be prepared without harmful ingredients such as oils, butter, or seasoning.
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Safe mushrooms for cats include white button, cremini, and portobello
While cats can eat some mushrooms, it's crucial to ensure they are of edible varieties. Many mushrooms are toxic and can cause serious or even life-threatening illnesses in cats. Wild mushrooms, in particular, are extremely risky and should always be avoided as they can be toxic and even fatal. Even small amounts of certain wild mushrooms, such as Amanita, can lead to severe liver failure, vomiting, or death. Other wild mushrooms like Galerina often contain potent toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, liver failure, and even death. Magic mushrooms are also highly toxic to cats and should be avoided at all costs. They contain psilocybin, a substance that can cause hallucinations, seizures, and serious health problems.
If you are unsure about a mushroom's safety or if your cat shows any signs of illness after consuming one, contact your vet immediately. Symptoms of mushroom poisoning may not appear immediately, so it's crucial to monitor your cat closely if they have been exposed to mushrooms. When taking your cat to the vet, it is helpful to provide a photo or sample of the mushroom to guide the treatment plan.
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Magic mushrooms are toxic to cats
Cats are curious creatures that wander around with their noses to the ground, sniffing, licking, and eating things. While some mushrooms are safe for cats in moderation, such as common varieties like white button or cremini mushrooms, wild mushrooms are a major risk and should always be avoided due to the potential for toxicity. If cats ingest toxic mushrooms, it can lead to serious health issues or even death.
Magic mushrooms are highly toxic to cats and should never be consumed by them. They contain psilocybin, a substance that is structurally related to LSD and acts on serotonin receptors. The onset of illness is fast, with signs occurring in 30 minutes up to 6 hours. Signs include weakness, lack of coordination, tremors, hallucinations, vocalizations, disorientation, agitation, altered mentation, drooling, vomiting, and seizures. Even small amounts of toxic mushrooms can lead to serious health issues. Symptoms may be delayed, and even minimal exposure can lead to long-term health issues or even death, depending on the type of mushroom consumed.
If you suspect your cat has ingested magic mushrooms or any other potentially toxic substance, call the Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) at (888) 426-4435 or contact your local veterinarian as soon as possible. Evidence of exposure to mushrooms is the first factor in an accurate diagnosis. Be specific when describing symptoms and their time of onset. This information is vital for an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment. Your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam and take blood and urine samples to determine organ function. A sample of stomach contents may also be retrieved to help identify the ingested mushroom.
To protect your cat from potential poisoning, keep an eye on any new growths outside, especially mushrooms. Mushrooms grow best in warm, wet weather and flourish in many places. They can grow in wooded areas, rocky terrains, grassy parks, and even backyards. In warmer climates, they may grow year-round, but in most areas, spring and early fall are the prime growing seasons.
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Signs of mushroom poisoning in cats
While mushroom poisoning is rare in cats, it can be fatal depending on the type of mushroom ingested. The signs of mushroom poisoning in cats can vary depending on the species of mushroom and the amount ingested. Some mushrooms can cause immediate irritation, while others may take up to 14 days for symptoms to develop. Here are some of the signs that your cat may be experiencing mushroom poisoning:
Gastrointestinal Issues
Mushroom toxins can cause gastrointestinal problems such as an upset stomach, inappetence, hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms can occur as early as 15 minutes after ingestion or be delayed for up to 6 hours. In some cases, gastrointestinal irritation may be accompanied by respiratory problems and a slow heart rate (bradycardia).
Kidney Problems
Some mushroom toxins specifically target the kidneys, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, increased drinking and urination, dehydration, and inappetence. Cases of kidney-related mushroom toxicity are rare in North America, but when they do occur, treatment may be delayed until the damage is already done.
Neurological Issues
Neurotoxic mushrooms, such as those containing hydrazines, isoxazole, or psilocybin, can cause a range of neurological symptoms, including weakness, lack of coordination, tremors, hallucinations, vocalizations, disorientation, agitation, altered mentation, drooling, vomiting, and seizures. The onset of these symptoms is typically rapid, occurring within 30 minutes to 6 hours of ingestion.
Liver Damage
Mushroom toxins can also affect the liver, leading to severe liver failure and even death. Signs of liver damage include yellow-tinged gums and skin or jaundice.
It is important to note that the symptoms of mushroom poisoning can be highly variable and may depend on the specific mushroom species ingested. If you suspect your cat has ingested a mushroom, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care, even if your cat is not displaying any symptoms. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent long-term health issues or death.
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Frequently asked questions
Puffball mushrooms are not poisonous, but there are a few look-alikes that are toxic. The Earthball mushroom (Scleroderma citrinum), for example, is brown or reddish-brown with small scales on the surface and is poisonous. If you suspect your cat has ingested a toxic mushroom, consult your vet immediately.
Puffballs are typically spherical or upside-down pear-shaped. The flesh is white, firm, and spongy when young, but becomes yellowish or brown and softer as it matures. They lack an open cap with spore-bearing gills, which is one of their most distinguishing features.
The symptoms of mushroom poisoning in cats can vary depending on the type of mushroom ingested. Some common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, lack of coordination, tremors, hallucinations, and seizures. If you suspect your cat has ingested a toxic mushroom, seek veterinary assistance immediately.
Yes, certain mushrooms are safe for cats to consume in moderation. These include common varieties like white button, cremini, or portobello mushrooms. It is important to avoid any seasoning, butter, or oils when serving mushrooms to cats, as these can upset their stomach or be harmful.
